Stephen Fry will present a new ‘Harry Potter’ inspired documentary for BBC One.
The 62-year-old actor and writer – who narrated the audiobooks for J.K. Rowling’s epic saga – has signed up to front ‘Fantastic Beasts: A Natural History’, which is based on the spin-off book and films inspired by the Hogwarts text book.
He said: "I could not be more delighted to be a part of this magnificent opportunity for us Muggles to show the Wizarding World that the fantastic beasts in our world are more than a match for theirs.
"Joining forces with the combined powers of the fabulous BBC, its legendary Natural History Unit and the magical Natural History Museum we hope to be able to bring you closer than you’ve ever been to some of the most spectacular and extraordinary creatures ever seen."
The one-hour programme will explore the origins and stores of the mythical creatures and fantastic beasts from Rowling’s tales, while looking at their connections with animals in our own world.
The special documentary promises to take viewers on a journey from London’s Natural History Museum – which is producing the project in partnership with Warner Bros. and BBC – to secret caves of Madagascar and the frozen steppes of Siberia.
Charlotte Moore, the BBC’s director of content, added: "The BBC is world-renowned for its amazing natural history programming and it is a delight to bring the natural world and Wizarding World together on BBC One."
The film will also shine a light on the museum’s upcoming ‘Fantastic Beast: The Wonder of Nature’ exhibition – due to open in spring – as it "combines the creative power of film, television, literature and science".
The documentary will also gives exclusive access behind the scenes at both the museum and Warner Bros. Studios.
Josh Berger – President & MD, Warner Bros. Entertainment UK and President, Harry Potter Global Franchise Development – said: "It is hugely exciting to be working with the Natural History Museum and the BBC Natural History Unit, such iconic British institutions, on a project which has such a great purpose at its heart.
"I hope both fans of the Wizarding World and the natural world will enjoy the exhibition and documentary immensely."
Stephen Fry presenting new Harry Potter inspired Fantastic Beasts documentary for BBC
